CHW Solutions

Food as Medicine Topic: Apples

Does an apple a day really keep the doctor away?  Apples are a potent, nutrient-dense “healing” food loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals that support overall health, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Consuming them regularly helps improve gut health, regulate blood sugar, boost heart health, and potentially prevent cancer. Eating apples […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Sunflower Seeds

Seeds play a crucial role in our diet because they provide a concentrated nutrient source that supports overall health and well-being. One of the healthiest seeds are from the sunflower plant. Sunflower seeds are widely considered the most popular snacking seed in America, with roughly 90% of the population consuming them. Our neighbor North Dakota […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Ginger Spice

For centuries, spices have not only been used in flavoring food, but also in treating a variety of health-related issues. Take ginger, for example: its history goes back over 5000 years and it is traditionally considered a general tonic for whatever ails you. Indeed, ginger may be one of nature’s most remarkable superfoods!    Considered […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Chili Peppers

Chili peppers are a huge family of peppers enjoyed throughout the world. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of chili pepper varieties used to add fiery flavor to foods. Wild chili peppers were gathered in Mexico thousands of years ago, brought into India and Southeast Asia, and eventually found their way to Europe by the […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Onions

Onions have always been a mainstay in cooking adding texture and taste to many dishes worldwide. It turns out the impressive health benefits of onions is another reason to include them often in your diet. Studies show onions may prevent and relieve symptoms of heart disorders and diabetes. They are also known for improving conditions […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Quinoa

Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is considered an “ancient grain” because it has been cultivated for thousands of years and remains largely unchanged. But quinoa isn’t actually a grain: it’s a seed. Quinoa is grown primarily in South America including countries like Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, and Bolivia. It comes in many colors such as white, yellow, pink, orange, […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Potatoes

Of all the vegetables Americans eat, potatoes are among the most popular.  The average person eats around 55 pounds of potatoes every year. In fact, potatoes are an important staple food in many countries around the world and have been for centuries. The reason is because they are incredibly nutritious, versatile, and provide satisfying and steady […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Mushrooms

Mushrooms are widely known for their amazing health benefits. For centuries, mushrooms have been used as immune boosters, antibacterial agents, and to decrease inflammation and fatigue. While not a real vegetable, mushrooms are a type of fungus that contain a variety of powerful phytochemicals. Research shows that it is the high levels of ergothioneine found […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Spices

Since ancient times, spices have not only been used in flavoring food, but also in treating medical issues, in food preservation, and in religious and spiritual practices. Today, spices still play an important role in cooking, but most people do not realize the immense power of herbs and spices in healing the human body. It […]

Food as Medicine Topic: Garlic

The Greek physician Hippocrates prescribed garlic for a variety of medical conditions.  Ancient Egyptians considered garlic a symbol of good fortune, health, and protection.  Indeed, this bulbous plant has been used for thousands of years by cultures worldwide and is considered one of the global cuisines’ most widely used ingredients.  Modern medicine continues to research […]

Check out the March 2023 Journal of General Internal Medicine supplement featuring a case study of CHW Solutions. 

Megan E colored bio image

CO - FOUNDER

Megan Ellingson (CHW, MHA)

Megan E.’s (she/her) expertise is in collaborative planning and implementation to address health issues requiring both clinic and community approaches. Megan’s professional experience includes serving as a Health Policy and Program Coordinator at the Minneapolis Health Department, and as a Department Manager in women’s services and pastoral care at Intermountain Healthcare. Her direct patient care experience includes serving as a Patient Advocate at MayView Community Health Center, as a Care Guide in late-life supportive care at Allina Health, and as a hospice volunteer with her therapy cat, Sweet Pea, at HealthPartners. Megan has a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Biology and Medical Anthropology from Stanford University, and a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration and Financial Management from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She also obtained her Minnesota CHW certificate from Northwest Technical College in 2018. Megan currently teaches the Minnesota CHW Certificate courses as an online instructor at St. Mary’s University in Minnesota.

Megan E colored bio image

CO - FOUNDER

Megan Ellingson (CHW, MHA)

Megan E.’s (she/her) expertise is in collaborative planning and implementation to address health issues requiring both clinic and community approaches. Megan’s professional experience includes serving as a Health Policy and Program Coordinator at the Minneapolis Health Department, and as a Department Manager in women’s services and pastoral care at Intermountain Healthcare. Her direct patient care experience includes serving as a Patient Advocate at MayView Community Health Center, as a Care Guide in late-life supportive care at Allina Health, and as a hospice volunteer with her therapy cat, Sweet Pea, at HealthPartners. Megan has a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Biology and Medical Anthropology from Stanford University, and a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration and Financial Management from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She also obtained her Minnesota CHW certificate in August, 2018. Megan currently teaches the Minnesota CHW Certificate courses as an online instructor at St. Mary’s University in Minnesota.